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 USEFUL INFO
   
We realise learning to drive can seem quite complicated, with all the forms you need to fill out and other stuff you have to remember. Don't worry - we've created this page to give you everything you need to know about getting hold of your provisional licence and starting your driving lessons, followed by the steps you then need to follow to apply for and ultimately pass your test. We've also included useful links to the sites you can click through to, when applying for both your licence and your test. We hope you'll find the info useful!



First things first, before you can even get into a car and start learning to drive, you have to get hold of a provisional driving licence.

To apply for this, you must complete the application form D1 that's available from either the 'Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) form ordering service', or from your local Post Office. Alternatively you can now apply for a provisional licence online. Visit www.direct.gov.uk and follow the directions. It takes about 4 weeks for your application to be processed and for your licence to be sent to you - so if you want to start learning to drive as soon as you hit 17, make sure you apply early!

Recommended study materials




We currently offer these free to all of our students




The Highway Code

is essential reading for everybody learning to drive. It contains all of the rules and regs that relate to driving in the UK. As a driver, it's your duty to know these rules - and remember if you don't abide by them, you'll be breaking the law and could end up being prosecuted. This could lead to you losing your licence, so it's worth getting to know what's what!



We recommend that you also read “Essential Skills”, a DSA publication. This book is about the skills of driving a car and will help new drivers with their practical driving lessons.




Your Driving Theory Test
The theory test is made up of two parts; a multiple choice section and a Hazard Perception test. The multiple choice bit is delivered using a touch screen computer and mouse, while the hazard perception test records your responses through the use of a computer mouse button.


You'll need to pass both parts to successfully complete your theory test. If you pass one part and fail the other, you'll fail the whole test, and will have to take both parts again.


You can book your Theory test through the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) website or the 1st Time Pass Team arrange it for you.


Applying for Your Practical Driving Test
OK, so you've had all your driving lessons and you're ready to go - what next?


You need to apply to take your test with your local DSA centre. You can do this online from the DSA website , but we strongly recommend you don't apply for your test until your Red Instructor thinks you're ready. Your 1st Time Pass Driving Instructor can also arrange your test date for you, if you want them to.


The Practical Driving Test
Before you do any driving you'll be asked to perform an eyesight check and then be asked some vehicle safety questions. You'll then be tested on your general driving ability, including two reversing exercises.


The 'Driving' part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for evidence you've reached an overall safe standard of driving, as you carry out both general and specific manoeuvres. You can make up to 15 minor driving faults and still pass the test, but 16 or more minor faults results in a fail. However, if you commit just one serious or dangerous fault, you'll fail the test automatically.


You must bring the following items with you to the test. If you don't, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) may refuse to carry out the test and you may lose your fee


An appropriately insured and licensed vehicle, displaying L- Plates, that's suitable for the test - don't worry our 1st Time Pass Driving School cars are perfect for the job and readily available!


The appropriate theory test pass certificate.
Your appointment letter confirming your test time and date
Both parts of your photo card licence. If you don't take both parts of your licence, your test will not take place and you'll lose your fee
If you have an old-style paper licence, you must take your signed driving licence and separate approved photo identification with you
APPLYING FOR THE FULL DRIVING LICENCE



Congratulations you passed!







You can now get out on the road. Don't forget that you now need to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and exchange your test pass certificate and provisional driving licence for a new 'Full' driving licence as soon as possible.


Start learning with 1st time Pass Driving School and take advantage of our introductory offer.

1st Lesson for ONLY £9.99*

Simply submit your details on contact us page.





Latest News
Taking your practical driving test

1st time pass top ten tips for accompanying a learner driver


Links
We have collected a lot of useful links below - we think we have managed to cover pretty much everything but if we have missed anything let us know and we will add it!

Apply for a provisional driving licence
Click here

The Highway Code
For information on the Highway Code.

Driving Test Centres
The DSA list of test centres across the country.
DVLA

theory test
How to prepare for your theory test

Learner and New drivers.
Learning to drive or ride

Driving Theory Test.

Preparing for your driving test ...
The Driver's Record

The Practical Test ...
Practical test for cars explained

Claiming a driving test pass
you have passed your driving test


Pass Plus...Pass Plus is a training course specifically aimed at new drivers

The Governments Road Safety Website...
The Driving Standards Agency's Arrive Alive programme

RoSPA...
Become a RoSPA Member

Young Drivers...
Safety code for new drivers

Drugs and Driving ...
Tackling the menace of dangerous drivers
A page about the dangers of driving and taking drugs.
For My Girlfriend

Contact us to find out more.





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